Morrill Hall, Mueller Planetarium celebrate Apollo 11’s 50th Anniversary

Morrill Hall and the Mueller Planetarium honored the special day with a special exhibit and showings. 

The interactive “Mission Moon” exhibit celebrated the achievement of man landing on the moon 50 years ago, and gave visitors the chance to learn more about outer space. 

Planetarium Coordinator Zach Thompson was there answering questions about astronomy.

“[There are] hands on activities to explore the moon a little more, or the science around the moon and earth relationships…and also, how to use a telescope when you want to observe and look at the moon as well so, a lot of things, but all focused around the excitement of the moon,” Thompson said. 

Guests were invited to explore NASA’s ‘Eyes’ App to learn how to study Earth from space, explore moon phases, create their own craters, and observe moon rocks. The exhibit highlighted how astronomers study the solar system, and lay a groundwork for young minds to understand the complexities of it. 

Thompson said one of the most important parts of the exhibit was helping someone learn something new that peaks their interest.

“It’s important that we reach people of all ages and especially when they’re young to spark that curiosity and excitement and hopefully to inspire young ones to go on in their lives to want to know more, to further their human understanding of our place in space,” Thompson said.

Throughout the event, the Planetarium screened a variety of space shows, including the original broadcast of the moon landing. It also featured the Smithsonian Channel’s “The Day We Walked on the Moon,” a documentary marking the 50th anniversary with interviews from key figures in mission control, contemporary astronauts, and the families of Aldrin and Armstrong.